Medical errors are a serious problem that can and do occur in the healthcare field. This course discusses the most common types of errors, as defined by The Joint Commission, as well as how to prevent those errors and investigate them when they do occur. The attached Resource files discuss Lab specific information regarding types of Lab errors, examples of errors, and Lab safety and prevention measures.

At the completion of this course the reader will be able to:

1. Recall the various government agencies involved in developing programs to prevent Medical Errors.
2. Discuss the common causes of Medical Errors.
3. Recall common terminology associated with Medical Errors.
4. Recall the different types of Medical Errors and those most commonly encountered.
5. Discuss the factors involved in preventing Medical Errors.
6. Discuss investigating Medical Errors, listing the steps involved in performing a Root Cause Analysis.
7. Recall ways to keep your patients safe.